Therapy by Barbara

A LILTTLE ABOUT ME

Background and experience

When we view the everyday as an opportunitiy rather than a drudgery to make it through, we have already succeeded in elevating our everydays, and when such a practice becomes habituated, more extraordinary moments are savored each and every day.   Shannon Ables

  1. Where I come from

    I was born on the East Coast and have lived in the South, the Midwest, and the Bay Area. My experience in the International Department for a major insurance company informed me that I didn't want to live abroad - that exposure through visiting was enough. I've also traveled extensively throughout six of the seven continents and have studied abroad. This geographical and cultural diversity has given me firsthand experience with different ways of viewing life.

  2. Education

    I earned a Master's Degree in Jungian-oriented psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute and a Holistic Health Certificate from Western Michigan University. I was ordained at St. John the Divine in New York City as an Interfaith Minister. I also received an MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University and spent over 25 years in the business world in positions ranging from sales to management. 

  3. Clinical experience

    I worked as a Care Advocate for United Behavioral Health. Previously I managed the substance abuse Outpatient Program at MPI Treatment Services at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center. I was also the primary therapist at Renaissance Recovery Center in Malibu, as well as a counselor at Stand! Against Domestic Violence.

  4. Private practice

    I opened my private practice in Concord, CA in 2003, working with adults and couples. My life and work have been inspired by many decades of deep inner work, with extensive training in different treatment modalities — EMDR, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga, meditation, nutrition, and exercise. I am deeply devoted to personal and spiritual growth.

  5. Service

    I've been a Hospice bereavement volunteer for many years.  Previously, I co-led the American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health team. I've led women groups for years.